Poverty and Economic Stress

Oct 13, 2025 by thesweetdesigns.com 2 views

Violence Against Children in Families in the City of Medan: A Serious Violation of Human Rights

Introduction

Children are the successors of the ideals of the nation and human civilization, who should get good attention, affection, protection, and education. The family plays a crucial role as the first environment for children to absorb good religious, social, and behavior norms. However, in the city of Medan, the reality shows that violence against children in the family often occurs, even though the family should be a safe place and protect children. This article aims to discuss the issue of violence against children in families in the city of Medan, its causes, and the importance of addressing this serious violation of human rights.

The Prevalence of Violence Against Children in Families in Medan

Violence experienced by children can come from various family members, including parents, grandfather, grandmother, uncle, and even step-parents. This form of violence varies, ranging from screaming, blows, curses, to more serious persecution such as rape or child abuse. Ironically, children who are in a weak position are often the target of violence, as if these actions are allowed by existing social norms. In the view of the community, children are considered not to have the right to fight or criticize the non-exact treatment they should receive.

According to Article 27 of the child's rights conventions, children must not be targeted by persecution or cruel treatment. In this context, the teachings of the Prophet also reminded adults not to hit children. Research conducted in the city of Medan with a normative and sociological juridical approach involved respondents from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and surrounding communities. Of the 60 respondents who were selected randomly, the results showed that many cases of violence against children that occur in the family environment, even though the law and conventions have opposed it.

The Role of NGOs in Providing Protection to Children

People are still often faced with news of violence against children published in the mass media, both print and electronic. NGOs also play an important role in providing protection to children who are victims of violence. However, there are several factors that cause these cases are difficult to process at the court level. The culture of shame attached to the family, both for victims and perpetrators, often hampered official complaints to the authorities. As a result, many cases of child violence are resolved through deliberations, without involving the right legal channels.

The Importance of Addressing Violence Against Children

Thus, it is important for the community to realize that violence against children is a serious violation of human rights that must be overcome. Education to parents and the community regarding the need to provide good protection and attention to children is very important. In addition, there is a need for cooperation between the government, NGOs, and the community to increase awareness and provide support for children who experience violence in the family. Only with this holistic approach, we can create a safer and supportive environment for children, so that they can grow and develop well without the threat of violence.

Causes of Violence Against Children in Families

There are several factors that contribute to the prevalence of violence against children in families in Medan. Some of the causes include:

Cultural and Social Norms: The culture of shame attached to the family, both for victims and perpetrators, often hampered official complaints to the authorities.
Lack of Education: Many parents and caregivers lack education on child development and parenting skills, leading to inadequate care and protection for children.
Poverty and Economic Stress: Families living in poverty or experiencing economic stress may be more likely to experience violence against children.
Parental Mental Health: Parents with mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, may be more likely to engage in violent behavior towards their children.

Addressing Violence Against Children: A Holistic Approach

To address the issue of violence against children in families in Medan, a holistic approach is necessary. This approach should involve:

Education and Awareness: Education to parents and the community regarding the need to provide good protection and attention to children is very important.
Cooperation between Government, NGOs, and Community: There is a need for cooperation between the government, NGOs, and the community to increase awareness and provide support for children who experience violence in the family.
Support for Victims: Support for victims of violence, including counseling and therapy, is essential to help them recover from the trauma.
Accountability for Perpetrators: Perpetrators of violence against children should be held accountable for their actions, and face consequences for their behavior.

Conclusion

Violence against children in families in Medan is a serious violation of human rights that must be overcome. Education to parents and the community regarding the need to provide good protection and attention to children is very important. In addition, there is a need for cooperation between the government, NGOs, and the community to increase awareness and provide support for children who experience violence in the family. Only with this holistic approach, we can create a safer and supportive environment for children, so that they can grow and develop well without the threat of violence.
Frequently Asked Questions: Violence Against Children in Families in Medan

Q: What is violence against children?

A: Violence against children refers to any form of physical, emotional, or psychological harm inflicted on a child by a family member, caregiver, or other person in a position of authority.

Q: How common is violence against children in families in Medan?

A: Unfortunately, violence against children is a common occurrence in families in Medan. Research has shown that many cases of violence against children occur in the family environment, even though the law and conventions have opposed it.

Q: What are the causes of violence against children in families in Medan?

A: There are several factors that contribute to the prevalence of violence against children in families in Medan, including cultural and social norms, lack of education, poverty and economic stress, and parental mental health issues.

Q: What are the signs of violence against children?

A: The signs of violence against children can vary depending on the type of violence and the child's age. Some common signs include:

Unexplained injuries or bruises
Changes in behavior, such as withdrawal or aggression
Fear or anxiety around certain people or situations
Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
Loss of appetite or weight loss

Q: How can I help a child who is experiencing violence?

A: If you suspect that a child is experiencing violence, it is essential to take action to help them. Here are some steps you can take:

Listen to the child and believe them
Offer emotional support and reassurance
Encourage the child to talk about their feelings and experiences
Help the child to develop a safety plan
Report the situation to the authorities, such as the police or child protective services

Q: What are the consequences of violence against children?

A: The consequences of violence against children can be severe and long-lasting. Some of the consequences include:

Physical harm or injury
Emotional trauma and psychological distress
Difficulty forming healthy relationships in the future
Increased risk of substance abuse or other problem behaviors
Decreased academic or career success

Q: How can I prevent violence against children in my family?

A: Preventing violence against children requires a commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment. Here are some steps you can take:

Educate yourself and your family members about child development and parenting skills
Set clear boundaries and expectations for behavior
Encourage open communication and empathy
Model healthy relationships and conflict resolution skills
Seek help if you are experiencing difficulties or challenges in your family

Q: What resources are available to help families who are experiencing violence against children?

A: There are many resources available to help families who are experiencing violence against children. Some of these resources include:

Hotlines and support services, such as the National Child Abuse Hotline (1-800-422-4453)
Counseling and therapy services, such as individual or family therapy
Support groups, such as parenting support groups or support groups for survivors of child abuse
Community resources, such as food banks or housing assistance programs

Q: How can I get involved in preventing violence against children in my community?

A: There are many ways to get involved in preventing violence against children in your community. Some of these ways include:

Volunteering with local organizations that support children and families
Participating in community events and awareness campaigns
Advocating for policies and laws that protect children and families
Educating yourself and others about the issue of violence against children
Supporting organizations that provide services and support to children and families.